Best Surprise Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

SA Recycling is a leading metal recycler, operating over 70 facilities across multiple states. Committed to environmental sustainability, the organization promotes recycling to conserve natural resources and reduce production costs. They actively engage with local communities through job creation and support for various programs, including law enforcement and non-profit organizations. SA Recycling also contributes to community well-being via service and monetary donations, striving to enhance the quality of life for employees and their families.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

The Southern Arizona Nursing Scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens for students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. This scholarship covers in-state tuition and fees for eligible students at non-profit Southern Arizona community colleges, facilitating their preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN certification. It particularly supports first-generation college students, ensuring they have access to the necessary education and resources to succeed in the nursing field.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Ray Davies Community Services Scholarship, established by the Tucson Mayor and Council, aims to support students from Southern Arizona in their educational pursuits. With a focus on community service and academic potential, this scholarship is available for high school graduates demonstrating financial need. It reflects the commitment of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona to nurture future leaders through educational assistance, fostering a skilled workforce and vibrant communities.

The Awesome Foundation offers Local Chapter Grants of $1000 to individuals and groups for innovative projects that enhance community engagement. Each chapter operates independently, focusing on unique interpretations of 'awesome' across various fields such as arts and technology. Grants are awarded monthly, emphasizing no-strings-attached support. This initiative encourages creativity and experimentation, aiming to inspire and delight communities worldwide. For more details, applicants can explore individual chapter preferences and restrictions through the foundation's website.

The PLTW Launch program, in collaboration with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to innovative educational modules in eligible schools. This initiative supports public and charter schools in targeted counties, focusing on increasing student engagement in STEM fields. Through grant funding, participating schools can introduce new PLTW Launch modules and provide essential training for teachers, fostering a richer learning environment to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

Native American Connections Since 1972, we have been changing lives, strengthening families, and building healthy communities. We began as a small grassroots organization operating one program for Native American men in recovery from substance use disorder. Today, Native American Connections owns and operates 24 sites throughout Phoenix offering a continuum of affordable housing, health, and community development services which touch and change the lives of over 10,000 individuals and families each year.NAC Affordable Housing ProgramNative American Connections provides more than 400 units of affordable housing with dedicated programming for seniors, low-income families with children, and low-income individuals at our high-quality, safe, and affordable apartment communities.Find a home where you can thrive and take advantage of our resident services to connect with on-site or community-based resources to improve your health, wellness, and housing stability.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Computer Science - Program Expansion In Partnership With Lam Research

The Lam Foundation supports schools implementing or expanding a PLTW program in or near several of their U.S. communities. Schools seeking support for PLTW Gateway or PLTW Engineering will receive priority. The Lam Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Lam Research, a leading provider of equipment and services to the semiconductor industry.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's expansion of student access to the PLTW Computer Science program. Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Computer Science program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Computer Science course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Computer Science courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2027-2028 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.

The GSF Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that enhance the lives of children and families in need. Applications must be submitted by a current GSF Associate who nominates the organization and its project. Since 2002, the foundation has funded over 600 organizations nationwide. It emphasizes personal involvement and contributions from associates, focusing on essential needs such as education tools, food, and shoes for children. Grants are reviewed at local and national meetings.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Christian Service Award Scholarship, established by the Catholic Community Foundation in 1998, recognizes students who have completed at least 100 hours of community service. It aims to support 8th-grade students planning to attend Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Phoenix. Recipients receive $2,000 annually for four years, totaling $8,000, to be applied to tuition. This scholarship promotes a commitment to service and a deep understanding of the Catholic faith.

The AzLEAP Grant Program, administered by the Arizona Board of Regents, supports low-income Arizona residents pursuing undergraduate education. With funding up to $2,500 annually, eligible students must demonstrate substantial financial need and maintain satisfactory academic progress. Institutions marked with an asterisk automatically select students for the scholarship during the admission process. This initiative aims to enhance access to higher education for those in financial need in Arizona.

The Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation is dedicated to supporting low-income and underserved communities through transformational gifts to nonprofit organizations. Focused on areas such as youth and education, health and home, military and first responders, the foundation aims to make a measurable impact. By prioritizing organizations that align with their mission, they strive to empower individuals and break the cycles of poverty and discrimination, ensuring every community member has a chance to thrive.

PLTW Gateway

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an initial investment of $150,000 to support grants for middle schools in Arizona, California, the Northeast, the Pacific Northwest, and Texas to implement or expand the PLTW Gateway program.

PLTW is one of seven strategic partners named this year, with support focused on increasing diversity in STEM fields while increasing middle school students' awareness of semiconductors.

PLTW Program Status

New Program

PLTW Gateway

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an initial investment of $150,000 to support grants for middle schools in Arizona, California, the Northeast, the Pacific Northwest, and Texas to implement or expand the PLTW Gateway program.

PLTW is one of seven strategic partners named this year, with support focused on increasing diversity in STEM fields while increasing middle school students' awareness of semiconductors.

PLTW Program Status

Program Expansion

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center is offering a Mini Tech Skills Workshop Grant to support local and national non-profits in providing STEAM skills workshops for youth aged 13-19. These workshops, which include topics such as coding, filmmaking, and robotics, aim to enhance technical skills and career exploration. Funding can reach up to $24,999, with a focus on hands-on, facilitator-led experiences, and additional programming opportunities may be considered.

The Banner-ASU Neuroscience Scholars Program offers a unique eight-week training opportunity for top undergraduate and graduate students in science and social science. Participants engage in hands-on research alongside leading scientists in the Greater Phoenix area, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases. The program includes mentorship, educational seminars, and a stipend of $4,000 upon completion. Scholars present their findings at a formal symposium, enhancing their professional skills and academic credentials.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment provides community outreach donations to enhance the quality of life for the Tohono O’odham Nation and Southern Arizona residents. They support 501-C non-profit organizations and local Tohono O’odham organizations, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, arts and culture, and community services. Applications must be submitted by the 10th of each month for consideration. With over 25 years of community commitment, they continue to foster partnerships and create positive impacts.

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at the UA College of Medicine-Phoenix offers a comprehensive 12-month training program designed to prepare fellows for successful careers in academic or private practice. The curriculum includes extensive exposure to complex coronary and peripheral vascular interventions, advanced imaging techniques, and hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, fellows are required to engage in clinical research, collaborating with faculty and receiving support for their projects, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

The BHHS Legacy Foundation Grant supports initiatives that improve health and quality of life for vulnerable Arizona residents. Since 2001, the Foundation has focused on four key areas: enhancing healthcare access, improving community health, developing the healthcare workforce, and strengthening community ties. Organizations seeking funding must demonstrate a clear health-related need and comply with eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status. This grant is vital for programs aiming to create sustainable health solutions in Arizona.

Credit Union West supports local communities through its sponsorship and support program. The CU West CARES Charitable Foundation provides grants, contributions, and volunteers to enhance the quality of life for individuals in Arizona. They focus on four key areas: community heroes, education for all ages, human health and wellness, and assistance for distressed and underserved communities. Organizations operating within specific Arizona counties are eligible for funding, while personal events and political initiatives are not.

The Schreiber Foods Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations addressing food insecurity and basic needs in Wisconsin. Open year-round, it encourages nonprofits in Brown, Calumet, and surrounding counties to apply for funding, which typically ranges from $1,000 to $100,000. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that enhance community quality of life, promote self-sufficiency, and foster partnerships. Notably, it does not fund religious activities, individuals, or debt retirement, ensuring a focus on impactful community projects.